The process to establish an aviation fuel refueling center at Phaplu Airport has begun. A technical team from Nepal Oil Corporation and Solududhkunda Municipality officials inspected the site and initiated the necessary procedures.
The refueling center is expected to facilitate flights between Kathmandu, Phaplu, and Lukla, improving connectivity. Mayor Namgel Jangbu Sherpa stated that the project was initiated following a request to Nepal Oil Corporation, aiming to make the airport a key aviation hub.
The center will boost tourism, as unpredictable weather in Lukla often causes long delays for tourists. With refueling available at airport, flights can continue even when Lukla is affected by adverse weather, reducing tourist waiting times.
Currently, Lukla’s weather conditions frequently disrupt flights, forcing visitors to endure delays. Regular flights from Phaplu would provide an alternative route to the Everest region.
Defense Minister Manbir Rai emphasized that ensuring aviation fuel availability at the airport would significantly benefit Solukhumbu’s tourism sector and aid emergency rescues.
